The correct coolant chemistry is vital in maintaining the longevity of engines, says diesel engine and technology specialist Cummins Filtration technical services support lead – Africa Tim Hayward, explaining that coolants increase the lifespan of engines by removing compounds that are difficult to control, such as phosphates, nitrites and silicates.

Cummins Africa manufactures Fleetguard ES Compleat Organic Acid Technology (OAT) coolant as one of the premium brand products that are produced locally at its world-class facility.

The coolant can be used for power generation, construction and mining, and in highway trucking, as well as in all diesel, petrol and gas applications, Hayward says.

He comments that OAT coolants are preferred by the engineering industry, owing to health and environmental concerns, as well as the possible adverse effects of nitrite corrosion on aluminium components.

OAT coolants are now even required by major original- equipment manufacturers (OEMs), as they do not contain inorganic compounds such as borate, phosphate and nitrite, Hayward points out.

“We take the guesswork out of coolant chemistry, which means engines can be maintained in optimum condition,” he highlights.

Hayward notes that Fleetguard ES Compleat OAT coolant is more resistant to contamination and neglect, and is therefore a more robust solution for internal combustion engines.

An additional advantage is the coolant’s more stable pH over a longer period, with the pH determining whether a product is fit for extended use.

“The pH determines the acidity level of the coolant, which, in turn, can negatively affect the performance and protection that a good coolant should offer,” Hayward says.

Further, he notes that many oil companies and OEMs are starting to blend their own OAT formulations in order to reduce costs and increase their flexibility in meeting specific customer requirements.

Fleetguard ES Compleat OAT coolant was developed in North America and rolled out globally. It has been available in South Africa since 2015, as well as in Central, East and West Africa, where provision has been made for mini blending facilities.

“We have a high-quality blending facility in South Africa, where we blend the OAT coolants and other products that we market and sell,” Hayward highlights.